What Does RR Mean in Bull Riding?

Discover what does RR mean in bull riding?, how reride options work, and strategies for riders and teams. Includes gear recommendations and key stats.

In bull riding, the term RR (Reride) is an important but often misunderstood element of contest strategy. Whether you’re a fan, rider or coach, understanding RR rules can impact scoring, safety and overall success. This guide breaks down the meaning of RR, its strategic implications, and how top riders take advantage of repeat travel opportunities.

What Does RR Mean in Bull Riding?

RR stands for “Reride” — a rule that allows a rider to discard their initial score and attempt a second ride on a different bull. This option is usually offered when:

1. Bull underperforms (eg, poor booking, erratic movement).
2. An equipment failure occurs (e.g., faulty flank strap, rope issues).

Rerides are important in multi-round events, where riders balance the risk of scoring zero against the possibility of a high score.

The RR Dilemma: Risk vs. Reward

Riders and teams face a strategic crossroads when offered a reride:

Key Factors Influencing the Decision for What Does RR Mean in Bull Riding?

1. Current Score Viability: Can the rider win or place with their existing score?
2. Bull Compatibility: Is the reride bull easier or harder to ride?
3. Injury Status: Is the rider physically able to attempt another ride?

RR Strategies for PBR Teams

In Professional Bull Riders (PBR) team events, RR decisions are even more complicated. Teams must weigh the overall score and opponent’s performance:

• Overall Focus: In multi-round events, it may be safer to have a low score if the team is ahead in total rides.
• Opponent Analysis: If the opposing team struggles, it becomes important to travel again to maximize points.

Statistics: In the PBR’s 2022 team events, 82% of games were decided by which team rode more bulls — not more scores.

How Rerides Are Scored

• Original Score: If the rider rejects the RR, their initial score counts.
• New Score: Accepting the RR replaces the original score, even if the rider bucks off.

Example: A rider scores 72 but chooses to re-ride. If they score 85, 85 replaces 72. If they back out, they get zero.

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Tips for Maximizing RR Success

1. Study the Bull Pen: Know which bulls are in the reride pool beforehand.
2. Prioritize Health: Avoid rerides if injured—safety over short-term gains.
3. Mental Prep: Visualize success to reduce panic during high-pressure decisions.

Mastering the RR Rule

Understanding “RR” in bull riding is about balancing risk, strategy and self-awareness. While replays offer a path to high scores, they require strategic thinking and confidence. For teams, prioritizing overall rides often follows the pursuit of single-round glory. With the right gear and mentality, riders can turn RR opportunities into career defining moments.